Rev Mark Aitken, headteacher, and Simon Pressley, guitar and bass tutor, at St Lawrence College, Ramsgate

A popular annual music event that aims to discover the new generation of Eric Claptons and Keith Moons has been saved after St Lawrence College, Ramsgate, stepped in as the venue.

The Rock 'n' Pop School, which is usually held at King Ethelbert School, Birchington, could not be held there this summer, due to ongoing construction work.

The news was a blow to organisers and students, who relish the chance to create music and perform during the four-day event.

Simon Pressley, guitar and bass tutor, said: "Through no fault of their own, King Ethelbert School couldn't stage the event in 2009 and we're so grateful for St Lawrence College's last-minute help."

The school, which runs from Monday, August 24, to Friday, August 28, provides training for youngsters in band skills, techniques, timings, band dynamics and different styles of songs.

It is run by Simon Pressley and drum tutor Dave Neal, a drummer with 1970s rock icon Suzi Quattro. Thanet-based national talent competition finalists Purity will also assist at the event this year.

Mr Pressley added: "Our young helpers from Purity are a key ingredient because they can share their experiences of playing concerts and recording in studios with our students. Being roughly the same age, they can really relate to each other."

For more information about the Rock 'n' Pop School, telephone 01843 863700.